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Lower back pain when paddling

Hey guys,

An issue I've always dealt with is lower back pain during and after surfing, especially when paddling. I have a strong core and am very flexible, so I don't believe it's an issue with that. I was considering maybe getting a longboard and knee paddling or getting a SUP. lately the pains been terrible so I'm thinking I need to make a change before I end up not being able to surf anymore.

Anybody have a similar issue with lower back pain with paddling and found relief? Chiropractors have worked well but as soon as I get back in the water the pains back.

try doing a 5 minute yoga/stretch routine on the beach, all focused on the lower back, right before you paddle out. alot of upward dog, standing side pose, etc. i herniated my L5 S1 about 2 years ago.
yoga 1-2 times a week and a quick routine before i paddle out, i surf almost everyday with no issues.

if that doesnt work take some time off, maybe see a doc, get an MRI, to see what you have. i stayed out of the water for 5 months after i injured my back.

An issue I've always dealt with is lower back pain during and after surfing, especially when paddling. I have a strong core and am very flexible, so I don't believe it's an issue with that. I was considering maybe getting a longboard and knee paddling or getting a SUP. lately the pains been terrible so I'm thinking I need to make a change before I end up not being able to surf anymore.

Anybody have a similar issue with lower back pain with paddling and found relief? Chiropractors have worked well but as soon as I get back in the water the pains back.

Never dealt with this myself but I do know a lot of guys who got into SUP surfing for the same reasons. Hope you get it sorted out so that you can still surf prone, but if all else fails, the SUP will be the way to go and you'll have just as much fun, if not more, since it's a new and different challenge. Good luck in finding a solution

Definitely go see an orthopedic specialist, especially since this is an ongoing issue. I've been in the same boat before from taking a nasty spill on a shallow sandbar. Going to a specialist definitely saved me from the chair. Hit me up if you need any topical analgesics - I'm in the business.

I agree with the yoga- been doing it for about 4 months now twice a week and have had no back issues whatsoever.

Originally Posted by gnurider7

try doing a 5 minute yoga/stretch routine on the beach, all focused on the lower back, right before you paddle out. alot of upward dog, standing side pose, etc. i herniated my L5 S1 about 2 years ago.
yoga 1-2 times a week and a quick routine before i paddle out, i surf almost everyday with no issues.

if that doesnt work take some time off, maybe see a doc, get an MRI, to see what you have. i stayed out of the water for 5 months after i injured my back.